Planes, trains, and automobiles

Ciao from Italy!

I have returned to this beautiful country after a whirlwind journey that involved many planes, trains, and automobiles. The excitement and anticipation of this particularly long journey to Italy for my residency at Borgo Santo Pietro has kept me buzzing with energy, despite the long hours of travel - over 24 to be exact. I was fortunate to have very pleasant flights and easy transfers thanks to jet blue and icelandair! I also need to give a special shoutout to Borgo driver, Simo who I was able to find in a sea of people in the Santa Maria Novella train station in Firenze. Without WIFI access on the platform, it was quite a challenge, but his suit made entirely of a deep chartreuse green was a dead give away of his affiliation with Borgo. His friendly demeanor made me feel instantly welcomed and in safe hands for the last leg of my journey by car to my simple, yet comfortable apartment in the Tuscan countryside for a good night of much needed sleep.

Upon my arrival, I was greeted with warm smiles and open arms by the staff at Borgo. There are a few familiar faces and lots of new friends to make from all over the world.

The picturesque surroundings and serene atmosphere have already inspired me to start creating art that reflects the beauty and charm of Italy.

My days here are filled with art lessons, painting, and photography sessions that push me to explore new techniques and ideas. Despite the busy schedule, I always manage to find some time for myself to relax and soak in the Italian culture.

Living in a humble apartment without outside connections has been a blessing in disguise. The lack of distractions has allowed me to focus on my art and reconnect with myself on a deeper level. Meals eaten alone may seem lonely to some, but I cherish the quiet moments that allow me to savor the flavors of Italy and reflect on my creative journey.

One of the highlights of my time in Italy has been the long walks I take every day. From early morning strolls to evening meanders, I soak in the sights, sounds, and smells of this magical country. The late sunsets that stretch well into the evening give me extra time to capture the beauty of Italy through my photographs and paintings.

And of course, no day is complete without my guilty pleasure – indulging in a few episodes of Gilmore Girls. The witty banter and heartwarming tales of this show have become my constant companion, providing me with a sense of comfort and familiarity in a foreign land.

As the month of June unfolds, I am excited to see where my artistic journey in Italy will take me. From the bustling streets of Florence to the tranquil countryside of Tuscany, there is no shortage of inspiration to fuel my creative fire. I can't wait to see how my experiences in Italy will shape my art and leave a lasting imprint on my heart.

Arrivederci for now, and stay tuned for more updates from my artist residency in Italy! Grazie mille for following along on this incredible journey with me. A presto!